Lift vs Extension

The key issue to consider concerns the best use of space. The decision is about which option either uses up the least space or gives access to the most space and the opportunity to provide the best facilities, within both the house and garden.

A lift is usually the first option to be considered, particularly if a grant application is being made, as grants officers prefer to approve adaptations that are within the structure of the house. However, where both a lift and an extension are possible structurally, the final decision must depend upon which option will be the most appropriate for the disabled person and the carers, bearing in mind the long-term effects of the particular disability.

For a guide to the factors to be considered by a disabled person and/or their family to help make a well-informed choice, please download this pdf: Lifts vs Extensions (80 kb)

(This information can also be found in chapter 6 'Lift vs Extension' from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign's Adaptations Manual, 2nd edition.)

Topics covered:

• Lifts
• Ground-floor extension
• Making the choice between a lift & a ground-floor extension 
• Summary

Suppliers' contact details

If you would like the contact details of any of the suppliers referred to in the article, please visit the link below.

Suppliers' details Return to the Adaptations front page.